Mickey, for years you have complained about the Clemson Administration's commitment to the basketball program. Has your opinion changed with the voted decision to rebuild Littlejohn Coliseum that would cost 60-80 million dollars? Do you like the pre concept designs that would include a practice facility, coach's offices, and also less amount of seats than the current Littlejohn holds. Also, are there any other areas that the school can continue to apply to enhance the program?

Thanks and Happy New Year

Keith

Keith,
Thanks for the great question. I have been impressed with the renewed commitment to the program. I like the new drawings and plans and think it says a lot about the level of commitment. I also like the new seating capacity and hope the environment will be even better. There is no doubt in my mind that Dan Radakovich is committed to giving Clemson basketball a better opportunity to succeed. Finally I can't think of anything else at this point that could enhance the program. Thanks again for the email.

Mickey,

I have not been a fan of coach Brownell. I am just going to ask one thing. How long will it take for him too get Clemson too the big dance?

Go Tigers!
Gervonte

Gervonte,
As you know. I am a Brownell fan but I am not sure when the Tigers will return to the NCAA tournament. I am more confident now than I was this time last year but less encouraged after the Auburn loss. It is pretty clear to me that this is not an NCAA tournament team this year. Moving forward it is important to remember this team has no seniors. They will add Patrick RooksPatrick RooksFr. Guard#4 6-2, 185Charlotte, NCView Full Profile who is out with an injury this year. They also add DeVoe and Grantham next season.

I don't feel good about the difficulty this program faces with the addition of Louisville, Notre Dame, Pittsburgh and Syracuse to go along with the rest of the ACC. But I do feel better about the direction of the program and the new arena that is planned.

In summary, I can't answer your question but I feel the Tigers will be back in the NCAA tournament sooner than I thought this time last year. I think you have to admit the program is improving.

Hey Mickey,

I'm a bandwagon Panther's fan and only pay attention once the college season is over. If you even have a passing interest in the Panthers you have to love Luke Kuechly. The guy is simply a tackling machine - period. Is it just me, or is Spencer Shuey a lot like Luke?. He seems to have the same instincts, the same football IQ, toughness, and he's almost always in on the tackle. I would love to think he could play in the NFL. Is there any real chance for him? I really think we'll miss that guy more than any senior on the roster right now.

Merry Christmas,
Jerry

Jerry,
Kuechly may be e league's best defensive player so it's fair to compare Shuey in terms of overall ability. They are similar in style because they both make so many plays between the tackles. They are similar in terms of instincts as well. However, Kuechly runs much better and plays better in space. I think Shuey will get a chance in an NFL camp.

Mickey,

Thank you for calling into question the somewhat disappointing sales of the Orange Bowl. I do think we, as a football fan culture, are getting increasingly lazy. Television is far too convenient, and we make many excuses without realizing our physical presence at the games is what the players, coaches and programs need the most. Ten years ago, five years ago, we would have given our right arm to go. I am surprised at the sparse numbers for Florida fans last year at their BCS Bowl.
I also want to tell you that I now have the utmost respect for radio talk show hosts. I called recently on my way to work with the expectation that I would not "get in." No wonder callers are rude. I was so nervous that I interrupted you and didn't even let you ask me the questions. I think it took me about half an hour to quit shaking. I don't know how you do it! In spite of that debacle, I enjoy your show. Hope you and yours have a Merry Christmas!

Beth

Beth,
I am sorry you got nervous. Don't be next time but thanks for the kind words. I agree with your assessment of the attendance issues. It is so easy to just sit at home but I still enjoy being a part of the game. I hope many fans will still want to be in the action and turn away from the convenience of the television. Nothing compares to being there. No one ever talks about seeing a game on TV. The real fun is to tell people that you were actually there.

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